How to Build a Gratitude Muscle in the HOOD

A few weeks ago, I began lifting weights again instead of just running. I noticed the other week that my legs had gotten hard instead of soft. I was talking with my husband about it, and he shared how he too was noticing the difference in my muscle development. The small results I have had due to the changes in my exercise routine have helped me understand gratitude the way I do. Hopefully, it can also be beneficial for you to think of gratitude as a muscle.

Making gratitude habitual is key to having the ability to navigate rough waters when life’s storms come upon us. Numerous benefits come with people being grateful individuals. Research supports the idea that having an attitude of gratitude is good for you. William Penn said, “The secret of happiness is to count your blessings while others are adding up their trouble.”  The Bible has sort of a theme of being thankful throughout it. As you read, you’ll find verse after verse over hundreds of times that encourage us to give thanks to God or offer him praise. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to “Give thanks in all circumstances” because that’s the will of God in Christ Jesus for us as His people. Gratitude positively affects us and the more you build your gratitude muscle, the better off you’ll be.  

 Here are 4 habits to implement in the HOOD that can produce immediate benefits and help you build your gratitude muscle.

1.     Think on things of gratefulness.

You have a choice in what you think about and as you think, you change the structure of your brain.

2.     Say 5 things out loud that you’re grateful for.

This requires you to think about what you have and where you are. This can be done any time of the day.  

3.     Set a gratitude alarm.

Choose different times throughout the day to stop what you’re doing and ask God to bring the blessings and gifts that he has bestowed on you to your mind and thank Him for them.

4.     Tell someone new every day something that you’re thankful for.

Saying it makes it real. Some different things can include the sunrise, your spouse, an unexpected blessing you received, time with God, or even their friendship.